Château Duhart-Milon Pauillac 2005

BN#176824

Château Duhart-Milon

2005 was the fourth consecutive year to have rainfall deficit, but the drought began very early, at the end of May, which allowed the vine to adapt itself by reducing its leaves. The very hot weather in June and July gave way to progressively cooler weather in August and the cool nights allowed good acidity levels to be maintained, resulting in slow steady ripening. A year of atypical weather but in the end ideal for the production of healthy, very ripe grapes with wonderful freshness. Attractive dense, deep color. Fruity, tannic, ample, precise and long on the palate. A very seductive wine, both dense and smooth.

Wine Advocate

The finest Duhart-Milon ever made? This structured, tannic, dense ruby/purple-tinged Pauillac offers up hints of cassis, licorice, chocolate, and earth. Medium to full-bodied with good purity, strong tannins, and undeniable elegance, it reveals a character not dissimilar from its renowned sibling, Lafite-Rothschild. A blend of 71% Cabernet Sauvignon and 29% Merlot, it is unquestionably outstanding, but to my taste, slightly less opulent than the estate’s ethereal 2003. Anticipated maturity: 2015-2030.

Score: 94. —Robert Parker, April 2008.

Wine Spectator

Dark in color, almost black, with beautiful aromas of spices, blackberry and milk chocolate. Full-bodied and very silky, yet tannic, with a wonderful texture. This is long and caressing. Gorgeous. Best after 2015.

Score: 93. —James Suckling, March 31, 2008.

Wine Enthusiast

Initially, it seems somewhat foursquare, with sharp corners, but that is from its youth, and with the black plum fruit flavors, there is plenty of ripeness and balance to come yet.

Score: 90. —Roger Voss, June 01, 2008.